Carafem's 'spa-like' abortion clinic part of new U.S. trend [View all]

Reproductive health centres focus on holistic approach to ‘de-medicalize’ abortion
By Matt Kwong, CBC News Posted: Jan 02, 2016 5:00 AM ET Last Updated: Jan 02, 2016 5:00 AM ET



The comments, handwritten on pink cards in the welcome lounge, praise Carafem's "quick service" and its "classy, chic and modern atmosphere."

The reviews could describe any of the salons or boutiques sharing the same tony strip in the Friendship Heights district of Washington, D.C. But Carafem, with its natural-wood finishes and cheery wall art, offers a unique service to women here: Safe, anxiety-free abortions.

"We wanted to be a voice that women could hear unapologetically standing behind health care," Melissa Grant, Carafem's VP of health services, said recently from the clinic's flagship office.

"We'll have flowers, there's music, there's no harsh medical smells, images on the walls are of people smiling. We're trying to maintain an experience that is as friendly and comfortable as it possibly could be," says Grant, a former director of Planned Parenthood.

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http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/carafem-abortion-spa-like-care-model-washington-1.3383128